Bentley Priory Museum — Attraction in London

Bentley Priory Museum offers a captivating journey into the heart of World War II history. As an avid enthusiast of historical sites, I was thoroughly impressed by the opportunity to step foot into the central RAF command center that played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the war.

From the moment I arrived, the museum's atmosphere exuded a sense of significance and reverence. The well-maintained grounds and beautifully restored buildings provided an immersive experience that transported me back in time. The knowledgeable and passionate staff were on hand to guide visitors through the exhibits, sharing intriguing stories and insights into the operations conducted within these hallowed walls.

The museum's collection of artifacts and exhibits was exceptional, offering a comprehensive understanding of the strategic importance of Bentley Priory during wartime. The immersive displays, including interactive maps, authentic uniforms, and communication equipment, truly brought the history to life. I was particularly impressed by the attention to detail and the commitment to preserving the historical accuracy of the exhibits.

In addition to the impressive displays, the museum also featured engaging audiovisual presentations and informative documentaries that provided a deeper context and a greater appreciation for the significant role played by the central RAF command center.

Overall, my visit to Bentley Priory Museum was an exceptional experience. It not only educated me about the critical operations conducted during World War II but also allowed me to connect with the past on a profound level. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about this pivotal period in history, Bentley Priory Museum is an...

My second-favorite movie of all time is 1969's "The Battle of Britain." (Favorite is "Casablanca.") To walk out of Bentley Priory toward the garden in the footsteps of Laurence Olivier (as ACM Hugh Dowding) was very exciting. There are dozens of books on The Battle of Britain but I can recommend "With Wings like Eagles," by Michael Korda, which focuses on Air Chief Marshall Dowding more than most. After reading this book, you come to realize that Dowding was one of the most important leaders in the Battle of Britain and without him the battle may have turned out differently.

There are no large exhibits apart from the aircraft on the lawn, which are purely decorative. This a a museum of small items, reading the information plaques, and incredible artwork (look up). It's small but well done with a good free audio guide. It should take about a leisurely hour or so.

To get here: Not easy without a car. Take the Jubilee line west all the way to the end (Stanmore). You can catch a taxi from there of you want. Otherwise take the 142 bus from the station to Heathbourne Road (next-stop sign in bus makes it easy to find). Walk in the direction the bus is traveling and make the first left where you see the sign for Bentley Priory. It's about a 10-15-minute walk. You must, whether walking or driving, check in with security and be let in and out. The Museum is in a residential area and it is obviously a place where the well-to-do live. To get back, the bus is on the other side of the street and little further down. It is easy to see and...

This is a fabulous 'little' museum, set in the central base of Fighter Command throughout the periods of pre-WWII, The Battle of Britain and the preparations for invasion. If you have the remotest interest in Fighter Command's importance and activity throughout WWII, the work and stories of those involved and the systems developed to detect and intercept enemy aerial attacks, then this is a wonderful place to start. Now set within a respectfully set out recent housing development, the extensive landscaped grounds of the former country hotel remain in a beautifully maintained state, with the museum itself located within the original hotel wing. An impressive and moving collection of memorabilia, artefacts, paintings and historic records are displayed, as well as an informative recreation of the original control desk, developed at the site, that formed the basis for all those bewildering control stations throughout Britain providing the Allies with the advance warning systems that enabled the brave pilots to protect the nation. A small shop selling related collectables and books is well-targeted for the audience and a lovely cafe completes the visit. Staffed by volunteers, many having served at Bentley Priory during it's long RAF life (which continued right through till the reduction in threat after the Cold War) this museum is compact, highly informative and welcoming. A 'Must see' for anyone with an interest in keeping alive the memory of the those souls whose selfless efforts gave us the freedom we take for...